What would happen if we looked after ourselves the way we look after our kids?
If when we were tired we let ourselves rest. If when we were hungry, we let ourselves eat. If when we were hurt we let ourselves cry.
What would happen if we talked to ourselves the way we talk to our kids?
If we told ourselves we were beautiful and clever and brave and capable of anything we put our mind to.
What would happen if we met our emotional needs in the same way we do our kids?
If we hugged ourselves when we were down. If we wiped away our own tears and lovingly whispered, ‘Everything will be ok’. If we picked ourselves up instead of putting ourselves down. If we let it out instead of sucked it up.
What would happen if parented ourselves like we do our kids?
If we encouraged ourselves to give it a go. If we told ourselves we could be anything we wanted to be. If we supported ourselves to follow our dreams. And if mistakes were simply opportunities to learn...
Imagine how we’d feel if we mothered the child in each of us the same way we do our kids.
Or in contrast, imagine if we treated our kids the way we sometimes treat ourselves.
If we put their needs last. Pointed out their flaws and imperfections. Compared them to others. Told them they weren’t doing enough. Scolded them for being too thin or too fat, not being pretty enough or having the wrong ‘body type’. If we suppressed their gifts, talents and abilities. Dismissed their ideas and allowed them to disengage with the world and escape into hours of screen time to numb their feelings.
It’s inconceivable that we’d treat our children like this so why do we do it to ourselves?
That little person inside you is just as important as that little person in front of you.
So imagine mama, what would happen if we mothered the mother?
Tag someone incredible who needs to hear this.
By our talented contributing writer Lou Marx.
Your read more of Lou’s work over on her Instagram: @lou_marx_
